A widow of Graham Thorpe expressed that additional support from the England and Wales Cricket Board could have potentially prevented his tragic passing. Thorpe, a renowned cricketer and former England assistant coach, took his own life in August of last year following struggles with anxiety and depression.
During an inquest at Surrey Coroner’s Court in July 2025, it was revealed that Thorpe had faced severe depression after losing his coaching position in 2022, leading to a suicide attempt. The coroner, Jonathan Stevens, highlighted shortcomings in the care provided to Thorpe by healthcare professionals before his death, ultimately ruling it as suicide. Thorpe had been receiving mental health therapy for 18 months before parting ways with the ECB.
Stevens acknowledged that the organization had supported Thorpe post-departure by funding treatments, hospital stays, and extending his health insurance. However, Amanda Thorpe, his widow, believed that more substantial efforts could have been made to help him during the transition period. She emphasized that if his cricketing career hadn’t been abruptly halted, he might still be alive today.
Amanda criticized the remote support offered as inadequate, stating that Thorpe’s condition worsened despite their requests for more assistance. She expressed disappointment in the lack of additional help provided during such a challenging time.
Efforts to obtain comments from the ECB regarding the matter are ongoing. Remember, if you ever need someone to talk to, The Samaritans are available 24/7 for support.